Peugeot 508

The Peugeot 508 is a comfortable family saloon with stylish looks, a roomy interior and a range of economical engines to choose from.

Performance

There is a choice of two diesel engines but no petrol option with the Peugeot 508. That is no bad thing as performance and economy from both options is impressive. You have a choice of a 1.6 BlueHDi with 120bhp mated to a 6-speed manual or automatic. The larger 2.0 BlueHDi with 150bhp only comes with the manual. The manual is a better option as the automatic transmission can be quite hesitant. Both engines offer decent levels of torque and good power delivery.

Ride & Handling

Being a big Peugeot, the 508 must succeed in providing a comfortable ride and like most large French cars, it succeeds. The compromise for this softer ride is driving dynamics. The 508 may not be as engaging as the Ford Mondeo or Mazda 6 in term of agility, but it competes for the top spot in terms of ride quality and the 508 is still enjoyable to drive. Its steering feels responsive and it performs well in the corners. Overall it is an impressive package.

Refinement

The Peugeot 508 is available in three trim levels. These are Access, Active and Allure. It comes with a decent level of spec as standard. It is also fitted with a sound proof windscreen improving engine and road noise within the cabin. All models get daytime running lights, air-conditioning, electric windows and alloy wheels as standard. Move up the trims and you benefit from items like parking sensors, parking camera, keyless go, leather seats and satellite navigation. All models get the 7 inch multi-function touchscreen that houses the infotainment system and this feature really adds to the cabins modern design.

Quality & Reliability

There is no comparison between the current 508’s interior and the model it replaces. The current model looks and feels like a premium product. There is an obvious use of soft-touch quality materials throughout and a sleek dashboard design that competes with strong rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. There are quite a few more buttons on the centre console, where rivals have gone for a ‘less is more’ approach, but it is a functional and attractive layout. The multi-function steering wheel takes a bit of figuring out though.

Safety & Security

The 508 scored the full five stars in Euro NCAP crash testing thanks to the Peugeot’s clever construction. It also gets host of safety technology as standard including electronic stability control, traction control, dynamic stability control, anti-lock brakes and emergency brake assist. The Allure model also adds front and rear parking aids, a reverse camera and blind spot monitoring. If you like your toys, you can also spec the digital head-up display that projects your speed on the road ahead of you, so you don’t have to look down to check your dial.

Space & Practicality

The 508 comes in saloon and SW (estate) guise to give you the option of added practicality. Front and rear passengers will have no issue with space thanks to good leg and head room in the front and back. You will fit three adults comfortably across the rear seat too. There is good storage in the cabin too with large door pockets but the glovebox is tight on space. Boot space is ok standing at 473 litres, but it’s a bit far off the segment norm of around 500+ litres. The Ford Mondeo packs 540 litres while the Opel Insignia packs 530. The rear seats do not fold forward to create more storage space either.